Ever since HP purchased Palm, the company has been saying it would be investing heavily in webOS. The previous shelved plans to produce a Windows 7 based tablet for consumers have been revised, and HP has decided instead to produce a Windows 7 tablet specifically for the enterprise market.
We had previously heard a rumor that HP would not be building any tablets or smartphones using Google’s Android OS. Unlike what was previously planned, HP has now confirmed that it will not be producing Google Android-based smartphones or tablets.
This should come as no surprise to anyone. With the acquisition of Palm, HP obtained a great OS that they can develop to produce a range of smartphones and tablets that hopefully will be able to compete with Android devices and Apple OS devices.
The Potential of webOS
webOS, originally developed by Palm, is known for its intuitive user interface and multitasking capabilities. HP’s decision to focus on webOS rather than Android or Windows 7 for consumer tablets indicates their confidence in the platform’s potential. webOS offers a unique card-based multitasking system that allows users to manage multiple applications seamlessly. This feature could give HP an edge in the competitive tablet market, where user experience is paramount.
Moreover, webOS has a dedicated developer community that continues to create innovative applications. By investing in webOS, HP can leverage this community to build a robust ecosystem of apps and services. This could make webOS devices more appealing to consumers who are looking for alternatives to the dominant Android and iOS platforms.
Enterprise Focus with Windows 7 Tablets
While HP is steering clear of Android for its consumer devices, the company is not abandoning Windows 7 entirely. Instead, HP is channeling its efforts into developing a Windows 7 tablet for the enterprise market. This move makes sense given the widespread use of Windows in corporate environments. A Windows 7 tablet can easily integrate with existing IT infrastructure, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to deploy tablets for their workforce.
Enterprise tablets need to meet specific requirements such as security, manageability, and compatibility with enterprise software. Windows 7, with its robust security features and extensive software support, is well-suited for these needs. HP’s focus on enterprise tablets could help the company carve out a niche in a market that is less saturated than the consumer tablet market.
We are expecting to see the first webOS-based tablet early next year. It will be interesting to see what they come up with. We already know that it will be called the PalmPad. The PalmPad is anticipated to feature a sleek design, powerful hardware, and the latest version of webOS, making it a strong contender in the tablet market.
In addition to the PalmPad, HP’s strategy may include a range of webOS smartphones. These devices could offer unique features such as seamless integration with HP’s other products and services, further enhancing their appeal to consumers and businesses alike.
Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you. This comparison can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, making it easier to decide which one suits your needs.
In conclusion, HP’s acquisition of Palm and its decision to invest in webOS represents a strategic shift aimed at differentiating itself in the crowded mobile device market. By focusing on webOS for consumer devices and Windows 7 for enterprise tablets, HP is positioning itself to compete effectively against established players like Apple and Google. The success of this strategy will depend on HP’s ability to deliver innovative products that meet the needs of both consumers and businesses.
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